Anoraak - Black Gold Sun EP

Anoraak
Black Gold Sun EP
2017
Spotify

Is it 1993? Do you have the top down on your 80s Mustang, cruising PCH or some neon drenched city street? you either found a time machine or are playing the new EP from Anoraak, Black Gold Sun. With bright synths and a deep summer groove this EP depatrs from the more moody and dark vibe that his previous release Figure tried to cultivate. Where vocals are used, they are effortless, and just sort of bounce on the track. It is the instrumentals though that really make this EP shine. 'Skyline" is ripped straight from Miami Vice, but int the absolute best way. The song just drives forward, foot constantly on the gas. There are times when Synthwave music can sound so derivative and so manipulated to elicit a very specific vibe, but Anoraak manages to keep the sounds modern enough to not sound stale. There is also this great use of dramatic tension, allowing each track to grow and move without forcing a new sound down the listeners throat. The remix of "Evolve" provided by Meathelvin is the most radio friendly track on the album and you could hear it making it's way onto some of the more indie radio stations out there. The original track also is a bit more pop ready than the rest of the record, but the remix just bangs way harder.

When Anoraak sings about getting back to where we were before on "Outcome" it is harnessing a throwback sentiment, but still looks forward. Anoraak is also wise to stick with EPs, at 10 tracks the synthwave could become cumbersome but at almost 30 minutes Black Gold Sun feels just right. There is not a whole hell of a lot to dig into since it is only six tracks one of which is a remix but the songs go far longer than four minutes giving them time to, pun intended, evolve. Anoraak just does the right thing at just the right time, yet He makes it feel so natural and smooth. You can tell how much work is put into making these tracks, but they just flow out in this really incredible way. There might not be a lot here but Anoraak has certainly proving yet again what a master of the synth He is. So it back, and let Black Gold Sun just wash right over your summer. Because you're worth it.

8.1 out of 10